In the northwest of France, the Loire vineyard extends from the Massif Central to Nantes over some 70,000 hectares of vines. It is known for the Chinon, Bourgueil and Pouilly-Fumé appellations, among others. The AOC Cheverny is also found there.
The appellation area of this AOC extends south of Blois in the Touraine vineyard over some 525 hectares of soils mainly composed of sand and clay. Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pineau d'Aunis and Sauvignon vines in the majority, subject to the temperate climate and oceanic influences of this geographical area, are planted in this appellation and produce white, rosé and red wines with an average aging potential of 2 to 5 years. The red wines are fresh and fruity with discreet tannins; the rosés are just as fresh and express spicy notes; The whites are lively and round in the mouth and express notes of exotic fruits.
Filtrer
AOC Cheverny: Everything You Need to Know About the Wines of This Appellation
History of the AOC Cheverny Appellation
Located in the heart of the Loire Valley, the AOC Cheverny appellation takes its name from the famous Château de Cheverny, eternally linked to the history of France and the region’s winemaking tradition. Cheverny wines have been recognized for their elegance and finesse since the 16th century, although the appellation was only officially established in 1993.
Climate and Terroir of the AOC Cheverny Appellation
Climate: AOC Cheverny benefits from a temperate oceanic climate with continental influences, providing ideal conditions for grape ripening.
Sols: The soils are mainly composed of sandy and flinty clays over limestone subsoils, imparting a beautiful minerality to the wines.
Key Grape Varieties of the AOC Cheverny Appellation
For white wines, Sauvignon Blanc is the dominant grape, often blended with a touch of Chardonnay, Chenin, and Orbois. Red and rosé wines are primarily produced from Pinot Noir (dominant), Gamay, Cabernet Franc, and Côt (or Malbec).
Style of AOC Cheverny Wines
White wine: Cheverny white wines are typically lively and elegant, with notes of citrus and white flowers. On the palate, AOC Cheverny whites have a linear, mineral-driven profile.
Rosé wine: The rosés are fresh and fruity, with hints of red berries and a touch of spice. The palate is refreshing and harmonious.
Red wine: Cherry-red in color. The nose develops aromas of cherry, raspberry, and spices (clove, pepper). Cheverny red wines are generally light and fruity on the palate, with soft tannins.
Best Food Pairings with AOC Cheverny Wines
Here are some pairing ideas to enjoy a bottle of white, rosé, or red wine from a Cheverny estate or château:
White wine: Fish terrine, roasted cod, Chavignol goat cheese
Rosé wine: Grilled peppers, charcuterie
Red wine: Rillettes from Le Mans, pork roast with prunes, spaghetti with arrabbiata sauce